Andrew Robinson

RESIDENTS were warned to stay indoors as a huge fire involving up to 15,000 tonnes of tyres engulfed a recycling plant yesterday.

Fire chiefs said the fire near Gascoigne Wood mine, in Sherburn-in-Elmet, could continue burning for days.

The scene at the ryecycling plant near Sherburn-in-Elmet. Picture : Jonathan Gawthorpe

Firefighters from three brigades were battling the fire which sent a plume of black smoke around 1,000ft high and could be seen on satellite images released by NASA.

The Environment Agency said officers were working to ensure that run-off water from the site is contained.

“It is unlikely that there will be any impact on groundwater and there are no drinking water abstractions downstream of the site. Any residents who can smell the smoke are advised to stay inside, and close all windows and doors.”

A spokesman for Public Health England said: “So far, there have been no reports of any people experiencing ill effects from this fire.

The scene at the ryecycling plant near Sherburn-in-Elmet. Picture : Jonathan Gawthorpe

“However, sheltering indoors provides protection from exposure to smoke, so we advise residents in areas affected by smoke from the fire to stay indoors and keep their doors and windows closed as much as possible to limit any exposure.”